I have an embarrassing confession to make: I’m a perfectionist. Before you judge me too harshly, let me remind you that there are plenty of us perfectionists out there; I’m not the only odd bird who likes my shirts ironed, my room cleaned and my work praised as flawless. But… Read More

I grew up imprisoned by low self-esteem; I hated myself so much I often felt suicidal. By nature, I am anxious, introverted and critical (especially toward myself). On top of these tendencies, I spent years living in a broken home with a mentally ill mom and a great deal… Read More

I am my own worst critic. Any mistake, significant or not, triggers a slew of self-deprecating murmurs and thoughts. Even when said in humor, every word is meant—every word is felt. I then arrive (all too easily) at this awful, unbiblical conclusion: “I am neither admirable nor likable. How… Read More

What happened to her? I can hardly recognize her anymore. Her sweet, pure, childlike beauty has evolved into a done-up mannequin.These were my thoughts as I watched one of my favorite TV shows, which is notorious for recognizing contestants for their talent and not for their looks. Revolutionary, right? But… Read More

I so badly want to stack up in life. I want to grow into a flawless writer, a perfect husband and a dependable friend. But when I consider these desires, I uncover a much deeper truth: I fear inadequacy. I worry about not stacking up, about developing into… Read More

A few weeks ago, I found myself staring aimlessly into the distance, feeling dazed as I tried to control my out-of-control thoughts. With my hands neatly folded behind my head, I wrestled with feelings of rejection and abandonment. I longed to feel accepted and affirmed, though in this place,… Read More

When I was a kid, I used to be terrified of talking to new people. I would hide behind my mom, burying my face in her sweater, because I didn’t have the confidence to talk to a new person on my own. Now, I’m too old (and too… Read More

Super mom. Super wife. Super worker. Super life. Many women might use these words to describe themselves. Often, they try to be the best version of themselves for their kids, their husbands, their employers, their social media “friends.” All this, despite the Bible’s message that God’s love for… Read More

Does every woman in the church need to be married with children in order to lead a happy, fulfilling life? Certainly not. But many single women may feel pressure to comply with what the church often upholds as an ideal state of womanhood. Kate Wallace is a single… Read More